Australia Urges Openness on Japan Defense Shift

More Detail Needed to Soothe Unease in China, Says Canberra

CANBERRA, Australia—Australia is urging Tokyo to explain in more detail to other countries, including China, its historic decision to reinterpret Japan's pacifist constitution.

Ahead of a visit to Canberra by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Australia's Foreign Minister Julie Bishop said openness about Japan's intentions was vital to defusing any unease in China over the reasons for the country's recent strategic shift.